Saturday, March 29, 2025
South Carolina, September 21, 2025 – Authorities in South Carolina have arrested a 21-year-old man in connection with the fatal shooting of a Gujarati woman, Kiran Patel, during an armed robbery. The suspect, identified as Zaidan Mac Hill, has been charged with murder and linked to two separate shooting incidents in Union County.
On September 16, Patel, 49, was attacked while working late at her gas station–cum-convenience store in Union County. According to a GoFundMe page set up by the community, Patel was counting cash at the register around 10:30 p.m. when Hill allegedly entered, jumped over the counter, and demanded money.
Before Patel could comply, Hill shot her. In an attempt to defend herself, Patel threw a plastic bottle at the assailant and ran toward the parking lot. The suspect chased her, firing multiple rounds. Patel collapsed about 20 feet away, mortally wounded. Witnesses say Hill even returned to fire another shot while she lay unconscious on the ground.
Earlier that day, police had discovered Charles Nathan Crosby unconscious at a residence on South Mountain Street, also in Union County. Authorities confirmed Hill’s involvement in that case as well.
On Thursday, officers from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), along with SWAT and Union Public Safety, executed a search and arrest warrant at a residence on South Church Street. Hill barricaded himself inside, leading to a tense hours-long standoff.
Eventually, SWAT teams managed to remove him from the property without further casualties. Hill was transported to Union County Jail, where he now faces charges including murder and armed robbery.
Patel, a beloved figure in the local Gujarati community, is being remembered as a hardworking woman who built her business through years of dedication. Vigils are expected in Union County as the community seeks justice for her death.
